The business jet that doubled as a military workhorse

Countries & Cities · Published 13 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Most private jets are built for luxury, but the Gulfstream G100—originally known as the IAI Astra—carved out a dual identity. While it served as an executive transport, it was also adapted into specialized military roles, including acting as a radar test target and a pilot proficiency aircraft.

The Gulfstream G100 has a complex lineage rooted in Israeli engineering. Developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) from the Model 1124 Westwind, the first production Astra flew on March 20, 1985. After receiving FAA certification in August of that year, deliveries began in 1986. The aircraft underwent several evolutions, including the Astra SP and the Astra SPX. It was only after Gulfstream Aerospace acquired Galaxy Aerospace in May 2001 that the Astra SPX was officially rebranded as the G100.

The aircraft's versatility is best demonstrated by its military service. The United States Air Force ordered the G100 in 1997, designating it the C-38A Courier to replace the Learjet C-21. While standard G100s are luxury jets, these C-38As were fitted with specific military avionics systems. By 2015, the Navy also began using former USAF C-38As at Naval Air Station Patuxent River as chase planes and radar test targets for the VX-20 squadron.

Technically, the G100 is a twin-engine jet with a maximum takeoff weight of 24,650 pounds. It was eventually succeeded by the G150 in 2002, which featured an increased maximum takeoff weight of 26,100 pounds and a wider fuselage. Despite its commercial success, production of the G150 line was halted in 2016 due to slow sales. Today, the legacy of the Astra/G100 continues through various operators, including the Indian Air Force and specialized air ambulance services.

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